be nice to us

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be nice to us" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting kindness or consideration from others, often in a casual or informal context. Example: "We hope you understand our situation and can be nice to us during this challenging time."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

29 human-written examples

"Be nice to us," McDowell said.

The New York Times - Sports

You must be nice to us.

The Guardian - Opinion

"They should be nice to us.

The New York Times - Arts

"Please be nice to us," he pleaded.

The Guardian - Sport

"Why wouldn't they be nice to us?" she said.

The New York Times

"I thought he was going to be nice to us but somewhat patronizing," Mr. Greenfield said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

"We play week-in, week-out on the PGA Tour and they couldn't be nicer to us.

The Guardian - Sport

"These people have always been nice to us," he said.

The New Yorker

If it's nice to us, bring it on.

The Guardian - Tech

"If you're nice to us, it's an open hand.

The New York Times - Magazine

They are nice to us while they wait until they are enough to kill us".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be nice to us", consider the context and audience. This phrase is generally suitable for informal or semi-formal situations where a direct request for kindness is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "be nice to us" in highly formal or professional settings. Instead, opt for more formal alternatives like "show us consideration" or "treat us with respect" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be nice to us" functions as an imperative request or plea, urging the listener or reader to exhibit kindness and consideration. Ludwig AI suggests that is a valid and usable phrase in the English language.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be nice to us" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that functions as a direct request for kindness and consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While generally appropriate for informal and neutral contexts, it should be used cautiously in highly formal settings where more professional alternatives are preferred. The phrase's versatility is demonstrated by its usage across various domains, from personal appeals to broader social commentary, seeking understanding and favorable treatment. Key sources include The New York Times, The Guardian and Vice, which demonstrate the phrase's prevalence in news and media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

treat us with kindness

Emphasizes the act of treating someone with kindness, focusing on the action itself.

show us some consideration

Highlights the need for thoughtfulness and understanding towards the subject.

be gentle with us

Suggests a need for a delicate or careful approach in dealing with the subject.

have compassion for us

Appeals to the emotion of compassion, asking for empathy and understanding.

be understanding of us

Focuses on the need for understanding and acceptance of the subject's situation.

be considerate of us

Similar to showing consideration, but emphasizes politeness and respect.

extend your goodwill towards us

A more formal way of asking for kindness and favor.

give us a break

A more informal and direct way of asking for leniency or understanding.

cut us some slack

Similar to 'give us a break', asking for reduced strictness or expectations.

meet us halfway

Suggests a need for compromise and cooperation, asking for a fair and balanced approach.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "be nice to us" in a formal setting?

In a formal setting, you can use phrases like "show us consideration", "treat us with respect", or "exercise discretion" to maintain a professional tone.

What's a more direct alternative to "be nice to us"?

For a more direct approach, consider using phrases like "give us a break" or "cut us some slack", especially in informal contexts.

When is it appropriate to use "be nice to us"?

The phrase "be nice to us" is appropriate in informal or semi-formal situations where a direct request for kindness or understanding is suitable, but avoid it in highly formal or professional settings.

What does "be nice to us" imply?

The phrase "be nice to us" implies a request for kindness, consideration, and understanding. It can be used when seeking empathy or leniency from others.